Monday, May 4, 2009

Four Simple Ways to Uplift

For the past several months, we’ve been inundated with bad news. The economy has gone sour, taking with it the housing market, small businesses, and in too many cases, even the security of our jobs.

There used to be a time when a dedicated worker could work at the same company for decades and live in the same home for years.

There was a time when the mom and pop store on the corner was a neighborhood fixture that would always be there like a comforting friend and landmark.

This was a time of stability and assurance that all was well with the world.

Sadly, times have changed. There are events happening today that can really make us lose hope.

Is there anything we can do to make a difference in this world filled with bad news and ever-constant negativity?

Are there small and simple things you and I can do to help spread positivity and love?

I believe there are.

Here are 4 positive messages you can pass along to others in your path today. Your words may be different than mine, but the message can be the same:

1. You matter to me.2. I believe in you.3. You are a beautiful person,4. Forgive yourself, and move on.

There will always be naysayers who find great pleasure in tearing others down. If they could get paid for being unkind, they would be rolling in the money. You know this, and I know this. They will always be with us, trying to undo the good we manage to accomplish. We may never be able to completely escape the negativity of the world, because it’s just so persuasive.

But we can make a difference, and it requires surprisingly little effort.

So, here’s today’s challenge:

Look at the four statements above. Think of someone in your life who needs to hear it, and then, tell them. It’s that simple.

It can be someone you work with, or someone you go to school with.

It can be the person who serves your breakfast or coffee in the morning.

It can be a fellow passenger on the train or bus or plane.

It can be someone in your family or even a family friend.

All you need to do is look around you at the people you see every day. You know someone who needs picking up.

Make a difference in their lives. Assure them all is not lost, despite the bleak outcome they may see in their world.

Can you do this?

Of course you can.

I know this because you come here to find ways to serve others in small and simple ways. I appreciate you for that. You matter. You’re the one who goes out every day and makes a positive difference in the world.

You are the one who serves and is willing to pass on my service challenges.